Are Shih Tzus high maintenance?

Time commitment breakdown

Owning a Shih Tzu isn't just about daily walks. Here's what the weekly time commitment actually looks like:

• Grooming: 30–60 mins per week — brushing, bathing, checking ears and nails.
• Exercise: 3–5 hours per week — walks, off-lead time, active play.
• Training: Regular sessions — Shih Tzus are challenging to train and need consistent, patient work to stay well-behaved.
• Mental stimulation: Occasional — low-energy breeds still benefit from mental stimulation but don't demand it daily.

Grooming requirements

Shih Tzus are light shedders — brushing once or twice a week is sufficient for most of the year. Even during seasonal coat changes, the increase is barely noticeable.

A slicker brush and a fine-tooth comb are all you need. Budget around 30–60 mins per week. Their low-shedding coat also makes them one of the more allergy-friendly options.

Exercise requirements

Shih Tzus have lower energy levels — 30–60 minutes of daily walking is typically sufficient. They're content to relax once their exercise needs are met and generally don't have the restless edge of high-energy breeds.

This makes them much more practical for owners with less time, smaller homes, or a less active lifestyle.

Mental stimulation needs

Physical exercise alone isn't enough for most dogs. Shih Tzus also need mental engagement. Shih Tzus are fairly relaxed about mental stimulation — occasional training sessions and enrichment activities are appreciated but won't become an emergency if they're occasionally skipped.

What "low maintenance" actually means day to day

A Shih Tzu's maintenance needs sit at a level that rewards routine. Owners who build exercise, grooming, and training into their weekly schedule find it entirely manageable. The problems come when these get skipped — a Shih Tzu that misses a week of brushing or a few days of proper exercise will show it.

Is this breed right for your lifestyle?